NET-ENERGY

Project Summary

Feed accounts for 70% of the costs in pig production. The constant reduction in margins in pig farming has made feeding program optimization a main issue to make pig production more profitable. Energy is the most expensive part of the diet and drives pig’s performance. The NE system has proved to be the best way to optimize feeding programs especially when used in low protein – digestible aa balanced diets. NE system avoids energy/protein imbalances improving FCR, growth and carcass quality. Thus, the adoption of the NE system is a necessary step for a more precise feed formulation and a more efficient use of new feed ingredients. Teagasc is studying the French and the Dutch nutrition systems in order understand their pros and cons and to select the one that best suits the Irish pig sector.

 Teagasc Personnel:

• Dr. Edgar Garcia Manzanilla
• Dr. Peadar Lawlor

For More details contact:

• Edgar Garcia Manzanilla at Edgar.GarciaManzanilla@teagasc.ie or +353 (0)2542290